Fire Chief Promotes Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Awareness During National CPR Recognition Week

Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin reminds residents about the importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation Week, which runs June 1-7, describing it as a perfect time to refresh or learn this vital lifesaving skill. Summer often brings a rise in medical emergencies, including sudden cardiac arrest, whether due to heat-related stress, physical activity, or water incidents.

Knowing cardiopulmonary resuscitation means you can step in and help before emergency crews arrive, highlighting the critical window for intervention when cardiac arrest strikes, according to Chief Augustin.

The city’s campaign reflects a stark medical reality: more than 350,000 people in the United States experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year. Over 23,000 of these cases involve children, with nearly 20 percent affecting infants. About 90 percent of people who suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests do not survive.

However, immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation intervention can dramatically improve outcomes. cardiopulmonary resuscitation performed immediately can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival. The survival rate jumps to 43 percent when cardiopulmonary resuscitation begins within four minutes of cardiac arrest.

Time proves critical in cardiac emergencies. Brain damage begins within four to six minutes without oxygen, making bystander intervention essential before professional medical help arrives.

cardiopulmonary resuscitation keeps oxygen-rich blood circulating to the brain and heart until advanced medical help arrives. The procedure applies to victims who are unconscious, not breathing, and have no pulse.

Emergency response requires three key steps: Call 9-1-1 immediately, push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, and keep going until emergency help arrives.

Pasadena firefighters Spencer Steckler and Elijah Mitchell recently demonstrated proper cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques, illustrating the hands-only approach promoted by medical organizations.

Training opportunities remain widely available through established organizations. The American Red Cross and American Heart Association offer certification courses, with residents able to find local classes by visiting redcross.org or heart.org.

The awareness campaign targets various summer scenarios where cardiac emergencies might occur, from backyard barbecues and hiking trips to poolside gatherings. Being prepared to respond can make all the difference in these critical situations.